Puerto Vallarta: Sierra Madre ATV Tour & Riverside Lunch

Summary

Ride ATVs through old Vallarta streets, mountain trails and riverside villages for a taste of real Jalisco

You’ll ride ATVs from Puerto Vallarta’s lively streets straight into quiet mountain villages and along river trails in the Sierra Madre. Expect laughter with your guide, a riverside lunch stop where you can relax or swim, and glimpses of daily life far from the tourist crowds. It’s dusty, real, sometimes bumpy — but that makes it stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start our Sierra Madre ATV tour right in the middle of Puerto Vallarta’s old town — but there we were, helmets on, engines humming while locals strolled by with groceries or just gave us that half-smile. The Malecon was busy as usual, sculptures glinting in the sun, and honestly I felt a bit awkward at first, like we were too loud for this place. But our guide (Miguel) waved at a vendor he knew and suddenly it felt more normal. We followed him out of the city — you could smell tortillas somewhere nearby and then all at once we were off the main drag, bouncing along back streets lined with faded murals and laundry flapping overhead.

The switch from city to countryside happened fast. One minute you’re dodging taxis, next you’re riding past fields and tiny houses where kids waved (some tried to race us on their bikes — they won). The air changed too — less exhaust, more earth and river mud. When we hit the Cuale River trails it got quieter except for the sound of water and those engines. At one point Miguel stopped us at this little cantina I never would’ve found alone; cold soda in glass bottles, lime wedges on the counter. I tried to order in Spanish but mostly just made everyone laugh. That’s when it hit me how far from the touristy side of Puerto Vallarta we’d come.

The last stop was a restaurant right by the riverbank — nothing fancy but I still remember how good those tacos tasted after all that dust and sun. Some people went swimming (I chickened out; water looked cold). We sat under trees while Miguel told stories about growing up near here, pointing out birds I couldn’t name. Heading back down into town felt different than leaving it — like you’d seen something most people miss even though it’s so close. My arms were sore but my head was clearer somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV ride through Puerto Vallarta and Sierra Madre

• Ride along Malecon by the shore
• Explore old town colonial Vallarta
• Travel through back streets and villages
• Stop for refreshment at Cantina
• Stop at riverside restaurant for meal
• Return to home base

Top questions

How long is the Sierra Madre ATV tour from Puerto Vallarta?

The tour typically lasts several hours including stops for refreshments and lunch before returning to Puerto Vallarta.

Is lunch included on this ATV adventure?

A stop at a riverside restaurant is included where you can buy lunch or refreshments before heading back.

Do I need previous ATV experience?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions and helmets are included for safety.

What should I bring on the day trip?

Bring closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, Mexican pesos for snacks or souvenirs, and your driver’s license if driving.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children aged 6 and above can join but must be accompanied by an adult; drivers must have a valid license.

Does this ATV tour operate rain or shine?

The tour runs rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe; check with your provider if unsure about weather cancellations.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; travelers meet at the designated starting point in Puerto Vallarta.

Can cruise ship passengers join this tour?

Cruise ship passengers should allow 90 minutes from docking time to reach the meeting location for check-in.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an ATV with helmet provided, guidance throughout by a local expert who knows these backroads well, all taxes and fees covered, plus complimentary photos and videos so you don’t have to worry about capturing every moment yourself.